Jacqueline du Pré

Jacqueline Mary du Pré (26 January 1945 – 19 October 1987) was a British cellist, widely regarded as one of the preeminent cellists of the 20th century. Born in Oxford, she began studying at the Guildhall School of Music in the mid-1950s with William Pleeth, earning the school's Gold Medal in 1960. Her musical development was further enhanced by advanced studies with prominent cellists such as Paul Tortelier, Pablo Casals, and Mstislav Rostropovich. Du Pré gained early recognition, winning Britain's most prestigious cello award at age 11 and making her official debut at Wigmore Hall at 16.